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tooth resorption image of molars
HomeBlogTooth Resorption: What You Need to Know

Tooth Resorption: What You Need to Know

On December 30, 2020 Written and Reviewed by JDC Content Committee

You may have heard the term resorption at some point in your life. It’s a common bodily function that involves one part of the body absorbing another. Resorption is a necessary process for some parts of your body, but not necessarily for your teeth.

What is Tooth Resorption?

Tooth resorption refers to the loss of a tooth or part of a tooth due to injury or irritation. It can affect different parts of a tooth, including the pulp, dentin, or root.

Read more: How to Floss Your Teeth Properly

Types of Tooth Resorption

There are two types of tooth resorption – internal and external. It’s usually easier to identify external resorption because you can see it by looking in your mouth.

Internal Tooth Resorption

Internal tooth resorption affects the tissues in a tooth. It’s far less common and generally only diagnosed through x-rays. That makes those routine check-ups more important because the x-rays show dark spots where tissue should be.

External Tooth Resorption

External tooth resorption is the most common type. It can affect the outside of the tooth and may look like holes or chips. On an x-ray, affected roots will appear shorter and flatter than healthy roots.

Tooth Resorption and Baby Teeth

Would you be surprised to learn that tooth resorption is perfectly normal at one stage of life? While it’s not a good sign for permanent teeth, it’s part of the natural process of primary, or baby teeth. As children grow, the primary teeth need to loosen and fall out to make room for permanent teeth.

Read more: What is a Dental Hygienist and What Do They Do?

What Causes Tooth Resorption?

Several circumstances can trigger tooth resorption, but it’s not fully understood. External resorption generally results from an injury that causes swelling and the loss of bone or tissue. Additionally, long-term orthodontic use and untreated cavities can cause tooth resorption.

Symptoms of Tooth Resorption

Tooth resorption generally starts on the outside of the tooth and moves inward, but the symptoms can be tough to spot. In fact, some people don’t notice any of the symptoms for several years.

  • Pain coming from the inside of the tooth, the root, or the crown,
  • Discoloration that’s dark or pinkish
  • Swollen and reddish gums
  • Odd spacing between teeth
  • Brittle teeth that chip easily
  • Holes in the teeth that resemble cavities

Complications of Tooth Resorption

People can experience a variety of complications related to tooth resorption. Aside from pain related to the condition, you may experience:

  • Tooth infections
  • Crooked teeth
  • Weakness and discoloration of the tooth
  • Chips or holes in the teeth
  • Loss of teeth
  • Roots may recede

How Tooth Resorption is Treated

A dentist or dental hygienist may diagnose tooth resorption through a physical exam or x-rays. It’s important to let your dental team know about any mouth injuries you experienced to help with the diagnosis.

Treatment depends on the part of the tooth affected and how severe the damage is. You may require a root canal, crown, gum surgery, or tooth extraction. Since tooth resorption can affect the appearance of teeth, some adults have dental implants or dental veneers placed to improve their smiles.

Remember, the best way to avoid significant damage from tooth resorption is to catch it early. Maintaining regular check-ups with dental x-rays with your dental team is your best bet. If you are due for a check-up and teeth cleaning, the team at Jefferson Dental and Orthodontics is here for you. Book an appointment at the dental office nearest you!

Our Jefferson Dental Content Committee supports our team by educational and informational articles related to what we do, oral care tips, and current events in our communities.

This blog provides general information and discussions about oral health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, dental advice, diagnosis or treatment. This blog does not constitute the practice of any medical, dental or other professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. We cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website.

If you or any other person has an oral health concern, you should consult with your dentist or seek other professional dental treatment immediately. Never disregard professional medical/dental advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog, website or in any linked materials. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please visit your local Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics office — we accept walk-ins.

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